By Alex Curtis-Slep
PISTONS BEAT SIXERS!
The Pistons beat the Sixers 93-84 to tie the series 2-2. They responded in the second half and took the lead throughout the fourth. The question was would they respond and after trailing by 10 at halftime, they came out ready to take over. This series will go back to Detroit for game five.
The Sixers have to be disappointed about giving up their halftime advantage. Winning in Detroit is possible, but it will be tough. Just like the Spurs, they have to force the tempo. They averaged 92.5 points in their two victories; tonight they couldn’t even touch 90. They need to make it a game where Detroit has to put 100 on the board to beat them. Take the ball out of the basket and continue to run like mad. Fast break opportunities don’t occur only off a steal or turnover.
Detroit, you now have to put the clamp down in game five. You have to realize you are not unbeatable. Come out and act like there was no time between game four and game five. The only thing that changed is where you’re playing and the color of your jersey. Once this happens, this series will be back in your hands.
SUNS BEAT THE SPURS!
The Suns beat the Spurs 105-86, but still trail the series 3-1. They put forth some defensive effort and they blew them out. They started out hot on offense and it had a clear effect on how they played defense. Mike D’Antoni got thrown out of the game late, maybe this will help the Suns more. There was some call he didn’t like and he was on fire. They know they’ve got to bring the heat in game five, a little heat from their coach wouldn’t hurt.
The Spurs just have to not get into a hole early. If they can contain the Suns early, they’ll be able to stay in the game. Maybe a reminder that they’re a grind the game out team wouldn’t hurt. Force the tempo and make the Suns play long and hard on the defensive end. Scoring under 100 points is not bad if you’re San Antonio, it’s welcomed.
Phoenix should win game five. It will be much closer, but they will extend the series at least one more game.
CAVS BEAT WIZARDS!
The Cavs beat the Wizards 100-97 to take a 3-1 series lead. Delonte West hit a clutch three late to ice the game. The only reason any of this was possible is LJ’s unselfishness. He was doubled and needed to hit someone for an open shot. West was open and he delivered. This should enable them to take this series in five games.
The Wiz have to try not to anger LeBron to win game five. All they do is give him that steam and all it does is hurt them. Eddie Jordan needs to make a point to his team: just play. Don’t worry about all of these public comments and what not, just trash talk with your game. They have the talent to do that, it’s what they did in game three.
LJ has to attempt to keep the same full head of steam to close this team out and start getting ready for round two. Also, the supporting cast has to show up again. Gibson and West hit some big three’s late and they will need that again.
Photo by: Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP
Alex blogs at Basketball Notes By Alex
